Thriving Beyond Borders: The Journey of Dr. Tuyen Van Duong in Taiwan’s Academic Landscape

In the bustling academic environment of Taipei Medical University (TMU), one professor’s journey from Vietnam to Taiwan tells a powerful story of resilience, growth and cross-cultural connection. Dr. Tuyen Van Duong, now an associate professor at TMU’s School of Nutrition and Health Sciences, did not always envision a long-term future in Taiwan. But what began as a pursuit of education slowly evolved into a full-fledged academic career deeply rooted in a new home.

From International Student to Faculty Member

Dr. Tuyen’s path to Taiwan was not guided by a predetermined plan. Like many international students, he initially arrived seeking higher education. However, as he progressed from a master’s degree to PhD, the postdoctoral work opportunities gradually opened before him. One such opportunity was a faculty position that he applied for, and with it came the realization that his decision to stay in Taiwan was not just convenient–it was transformational.

TMU, as he describes, became more than just an institution. It was his incubator, a home that nurtured his academic and professional growth. The university provided him not only with advanced training and research opportunities but also a welcoming environment where international students and faculty could thrive. From building strong academic credentials to forming friendships that spanned the globe–including deep ties with his native Vietnam–Dr.Tuyen’s time at TMU helped lay a robust foundation for his future.

Life in Academia

The cultural and working environment in Taiwan, he observed, is both vibrant and structured. Unlike his home country, where social life and professional life often blend, Taiwan offers a balance. Professionals work diligently during the week but also are encouraged to take meaningful breaks–something Dr. Tuyen appreciates it. This clear distinction between work and personal time enhances well-being, especially in a demanding academic field.

However, the journey has not been without its challenges. For foreign professionals, especially those who come to Taiwan solely for work without prior experience as students, integration can be daunting. There’s the need to quickly become independent–both in life and career. In contrast, international students transitioning into faculty roles have an advantage, having already built support systems through professors, classmates, and students associations.

Challenges and Growth as a Faculty Member

The challenges intensify when one becomes a faculty member. As a professor, one is expected not only to excel academically but also to become a mentor and a protector–supporting students while building a life of their own. Language, unsurprisingly, remains a significant barrier. While conversational Chinese may suffice for daily interactions, it falls short in professional contexts, particularly in writing research proposals or applying for grants–many of which require fluency in Chinese.

Despite these obstacles, Dr. Tuyen has found ways to adapt. He utilizes AI translation tools and seeks support from local colleagues when needed. Still, he acknowledges that mastering Chinese language can open doors to greater independence and opportunity in Taiwan’s academic world. He highlights the dual identity international professors often hold: being both a foreign presence to local students and a familiar guide for international students.

Be Well Prepared

His advice to future international talents is simple but profound: prepare well–not just academically but linguistically and mentally. The opportunity will present itself when one is truly ready. As for Taiwan, he sees a bright future. The government, he believes, is doing increasingly well in attracting global talent. One suggestion he offers is the organization of annual summits for international faculty across Taiwan to connect, share, and collaborate.

Dr. Tuyen Van Duong’s story reflects the evolving landscape of international academia in Taiwan. Its narrative of growth born from courage, cultural exchange, and the quiet strength of persistence. Through his journey, Taiwan gains more than just a scholar–it gains a bridge between worlds.